Could musty smell be due to mold?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storms we had last month, I’ve noticed a persistent musty smell in our living room. My kids have been complaining of a scratchy throat and sneezing fits every time we spend more than an hour there. Could this be from mold or poor cleaning practices? What steps should I take to ensure it’s clean and safe for us?
Posted by Amanda Miller
Asked on December 20, 2025 10:34 pm
0
Absolutely could be. Musty smell is often linked to mold growth and it's wise to investigate especially if it persists after cleaning or following a dust storm like the one we had last month.

Mold thrives in damp, humid conditions which are unfortunately common here due to our climate. The musty odour you're noticing might indicate that there's an underlying moisture issue somewhere, maybe not even visibly obvious. It could be from pipes, air conditioning systems, or just general humidity levels indoors being too high.

Given the symptoms your kids have been experiencing - scratchy throats and sneezing fits - it’s important to rule out any health risks associated with mold exposure. Children are more vulnerable to respiratory issues linked to indoor pollutants like mold spores.

For peace of mind and a thorough evaluation, i'd recommend getting in touch with professionals who specialize in environmental inspections for mold and dust. In the UAE, you can call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 (which is the number for Saniservice) to schedule an inspection. They are experts at identifying hidden moisture sources and assessing the extent of any mold growth.

In the meantime, here are a few steps you could take to help mitigate the situation:

1. Increase ventilation: Open windows if weather permits or use exhaust fans especially in bathrooms and kitchens where water is used.
2. Dry out wet areas quickly: Ensure that dampness from showers or spills dries up within 24-48 hours.
3. Check for leaks: Inspect your home’s plumbing, roof, and walls for any signs of water damage.
4. Use dehumidifiers: Especially if you live in a high-humidity area like Dubai where humidity levels can spike.
5. Clean regularly: Dust and vacuum with HEPA filters to capture fine particles.

Remember, while these steps are helpful they might not address the root cause. It's always better to consult professionals who can provide tailored advice based on your specific home environment.

Don't ignore this issue as prolonged exposure to mold could lead to respiratory problems or worse. Take action now and ensure a healthy living space for you and your family!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 23, 2025 4:49 pm